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??? Where Does "High End" Start ???

 There are terms we in this hobby use to describe certain characteristics of the components or sound evoked...Without fail,the terms entry level,mid-fi & high end will show up in component reviews or conversations regarding equipment components...
 So exactly how do we define these terms in absolutes?I understand there are components that,in this day & age,outperform their asking price in orders of magnitude but even if they do,they will invariably be tagged as entry level,mid-fi or high end simply based on their asking price..
 Assuming entry level starts at say $500.00 per component,where does that end & mid-fi start,$2500.00 per component,$3500.00,$4500.00,$5000.00?
 How far does that pricing structure go until you consider a component to be "high end"?
What are YOUR PERSONAL thoughts on this subject?

freediver
ghdprentice
8,137 posts
 

@toddalin  ...

"Where Does High End Start???"

...Just above what you can afford.

 

Good One! yes

noodlyarm
117 posts
 

+1 on Audiotroy’s response.  It’s not price, it’s intention and execution.

boomerbillone
371 posts
 

Helo Freediver!  The terms used to define quality levels are of use to advertisers only. They don't deserve to be uttered by music lovers and gear enthusiasts. Companies like Adcom, Cambridge, NAD, Outlaw, Schitt, Starke Sound, and others have demonstraited that good sounding gear does NOT have to be astronomically priced. High quality parts are not cheap, but fancy, sculpted, extra thick front panels are much more dear. There is an artistic turn of mind, encouraged by the marketing department, for eye-catching products that look expensive (and are) so those with ample funds will have something to satisfy their need to feel superior to others. 

Great sounding components of a music system do not have to be expensive. You can put together a fine sounding system for $5,000 if you are careful. Read the reviews with caution. If the reviewer says, "I bought the sample product after reviewing it," or "I could happily live with this unit in my system forever," that means it's a good piece of gear. If they say, "If you are looking for  product in this price range, you should consider this one," that means it is ho-hum, keep looking. Reviews sell magazines; that's the publishing business. They need something to write about. You don't see the poor reviews in the magazines. Think clearly, listen and read carefully, and be sure you can return anything you buy within 39 deays for a full refund. Listen to it first if you can. You own your ears, no two people hear the same thing (our ears are shaped differently), make your own decisions. Enjoy the music. 

roadcykler
238 posts
 

Like most audiophiles and what they believe sounds better, "high end" is 100% subjective.

mattw73
137 posts
 

I don't think you can put a price on it if we are just talking HE sound. 

I have heard some extraordinary music coming from DIY type tube gear. 

To me High End has the look, the feel, & the sound. Beautiful pieces..you know what I mean. You open them & every part down to the screws & resistors are top shelf. Cables, connectors, knobs, whatever is in eye's sight looks & feels like a million bucks. Match that with beautiful sound & I'll say that's some High End equipment right thar'.  

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